I used to lug home cases of sparkling water every single week. The cost, the plastic piling up in the recycling bin, and the constant trips to the store finally pushed me to find a better way. That is when our team started testing seltzer makers to see which ones actually deliver fresh, fizzy water without the hassle.
After three months of side-by-side testing, we compared 8 of the most popular models on the market. The best seltzer makers we found all share three things: consistent carbonation that does not fall flat, straightforward CO2 cylinder management, and a build quality you won’t mind displaying on your kitchen counter.
Some machines won us over with versatility. One model even carbonates wine and cocktails. Others impressed with price or premium stainless steel construction. This guide breaks down each model with hands-on experience notes, real customer feedback, and practical details like refill costs and bottle compatibility.
Here is what surprised us most. Forum users on Reddit’s r/SodaStream consistently report saving $40 to $50 per month after switching from store-bought sparkling water. One user tracked their savings over a full year and calculated roughly $480 in reduced beverage spending. Those numbers held up across dozens of testimonials we reviewed while researching this guide.
The environmental case is just as compelling. Each standard 60-liter CO2 cylinder replaces about 120 single-use plastic bottles. Over a year of regular use, that adds up to hundreds of bottles kept out of landfills. For anyone trying to cut down on household plastic waste, a home carbonator is one of the easiest swaps you can make.
A few things worth knowing before we get into the picks. Most seltzer makers fall into two camps: SodaStream models with the proprietary Quick Connect system, and universal machines that accept standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders. Some carbonators only work with water, while others (like the Drinkmate OmniFizz and Breville InFizz Fusion) can fizz up juice, tea, and even flat soda.
We also paid close attention to long-term ownership costs. The upfront price is only part of the story. CO2 refills run about $15 to $30 per exchange depending on your location, and some brands make the exchange process noticeably easier than others. We cover all of that in the buying guide section below.
Whether you want a budget-friendly starter machine or a stainless steel showpiece for your home bar, our testing covers the full range. Let us get into the top picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Seltzer Makers for 2026
If you want to skip the deep dive and just see our favorites, here are the three models that stood out above the rest. Each one earned its spot through weeks of real-world daily use.
Best Seltzer Makers in 2026: Full Comparison
Here is a side-by-side look at all 8 models we tested. This comparison table covers the key specs and standout features so you can quickly narrow down your options.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SodaStream TERRA |
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| Drinkmate OmniFizz |
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| Aarke Carbonator 3 |
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 Breville InFizz Fusion |
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 Mysoda Ruby 2 |
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 SodaStream ART |
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 SodaStream E-Duo |
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 Breville InFizz Aqua |
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Check Latest Price |
1. SodaStream TERRA – Best Overall for Everyday Carbonation
SodaStream TERRA Sparkling Water Maker, Starter Kit, CQC CO2 System, Includes 1 Quick Connect 60L CO2 Cylinder, 1 Dishwasher Safe BPA Free Bottle, 1 bubly Lime Drop, Make your own Pepsi, Black
Quick Connect CO2 system
Makes up to 60 liters
BPA-free dishwasher safe bottles
Compatible with Pepsi and Bubly flavors
Pros
- Fresh fizz in seconds
- Quick Connect cylinder one-push setup
- Slim countertop footprint
- Dishwasher safe bottles
Cons
- Some want stronger carbonation
- Occasional leaking reported
The SodaStream TERRA became our daily driver almost immediately. It is the number one best seller in the soda maker category on Amazon for good reason. The Quick Connect CO2 cylinder clicks into place with a single push, which means no threading, no guessing, and no stripped connections.
I kept this machine on my counter for the full testing period. The slim profile (7.9 inches deep and 5 inches wide) fit neatly under my upper cabinets. Filling the included one-liter bottle, snapping it in, and pressing the button took about 15 seconds from start to finish.
Carbonation is consistent and reliable. A single press gives you a light fizz, while two or three presses produce a sharp, almost store-bought level of sparkle. The included bubly Lime flavor drop was a nice touch for anyone who likes flavored seltzer without sweeteners.
The TERRA is compatible with the full SodaStream flavor ecosystem, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Bubly syrups. That versatility makes it a great option if you want to replace canned soda as well as bottled sparkling water. The BPA-free bottles are dishwasher safe, which is a real time-saver.
With 5,285 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the TERRA has the largest user base of any machine in this guide. Most complaints center on occasional leaking around the bottle seal and the ongoing cost of CO2 refills. Neither issue is unique to this model, and SodaStream’s exchange program is one of the easiest to use.
Best For First-Time Buyers
The TERRA is the ideal starting point if you have never owned a seltzer maker before. The starter kit includes everything you need: the machine, a 60L CO2 cylinder, a dishwasher-safe bottle, and a flavor sample. You can be making sparkling water within five minutes of unboxing.
At this price point, the risk is low and the value is high. If you decide home carbonation is not for you, you are not out a huge investment. For most people, though, this machine pays for itself within the first two months of replacing store-bought sparkling water.
CO2 Costs and Cylinder Exchange
The 60L cylinder included with the TERRA carbonates roughly 60 liters of water before needing a refill. When it runs out, you exchange it at participating retailers like Target, Walmart, or Best Buy for about $15 to $20. SodaStream also offers a mail-in exchange with a prepaid return label.
That works out to roughly $0.25 to $0.33 per liter of sparkling water. Compare that to $1 to $2 per liter for store-bought brands, and the savings are obvious. The Quick Connect system is proprietary, so you will need SodaStream-branded cylinders for refills.
2. Drinkmate OmniFizz – Most Versatile for Carbonating Any Drink
Drinkmate OmniFizz Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine | Carbonates Any Drink | BPA-Free Bottle | No Batteries or Electricity Required | CO2 Not Included (Matte Black)
Carbonates ANY beverage
No batteries or electricity
Compact 3 lb design
2 year warranty
Pros
- Carbonates water juice tea cocktails
- No power or batteries needed
- Compact and lightweight
- Eco-friendly reduces plastic waste
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Not Prime eligible
The Drinkmate OmniFizz is the machine that changed how I think about home carbonation. Unlike most seltzer makers that only carbonate water, the OmniFizz can fizz up literally any beverage. I tested it with apple juice, iced tea, flat Coke, and even a glass of white wine. Every single one came out bubbly and refreshing.
This versatility is the OmniFizz’s superpower. If you have ever poured a flat soda or a day-old juice and wished it had some life left, this machine solves that problem. Reddit users on r/SodaStream consistently praise the OmniFizz for carbonating everything from rosé to protein shakes.
At just 3 pounds, this is the lightest machine in our lineup. The matte black finish looks clean on any counter, and the compact footprint (8 inches deep, 5 inches wide) takes up minimal space. No batteries, no power cord, no charging. It runs entirely on CO2 pressure.
The build quality is solid for the price, though not as premium as the Aarke or Breville models. The two-year manufacturer warranty provides good peace of mind. Drinkmate uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders, which means you can refill at most exchange locations without brand restrictions.
With 2,518 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, the OmniFizz has built a loyal following. The biggest complaint is that CO2 is not included in the box, so you need to buy a cylinder separately for your first use. Keep that in mind when budgeting.
Perfect For Versatile Carbonation
If you want a machine that does more than just water, the OmniFizz is your best option short of the more expensive Breville InFizz Fusion. The ability to carbonate juice, tea, cocktails, and flat soda opens up a world of possibilities that standard SodaStream models cannot touch.
I found it especially useful for entertaining. Guests loved carbonating their own drinks at a recent dinner party. We made sparkling lemonade, fizzy sangria, and even tried carbonating cold brew coffee. The reactions were worth the price alone.
CO2 Efficiency Compared to SodaStream
One thing forum users frequently mention is that the OmniFizz tends to use more CO2 than SodaStream models. The carbonation chamber design means some gas escapes during the process. In my testing, I noticed the cylinder did empty slightly faster than the TERRA.
This is the trade-off for versatility. SodaStream is more CO2-efficient because it only carbonates water in a sealed system. The OmniFizz wastes a bit more gas to accommodate thicker liquids. If you mostly drink sparkling water, a SodaStream may be more economical long-term.
3. Aarke Carbonator 3 – Best Premium Stainless Steel Design
Aarke Carbonator 3 – Premium Sparkling Water Maker, Stainless Steel
Swedish stainless steel design
Damper-controlled lever
Electricity-free
Each cylinder makes 2000 ounces
Pros
- Premium stainless steel build
- Satisfying lever mechanism
- Sustainable luxury
- Compact cordless design
Cons
- Premium price point
- PET bottle not glass
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is the machine I would buy if budget were not a concern. Designed and engineered in Sweden by industrial designers Carl Ljungh and Jonas Groth, it looks more like a piece of modern sculpture than a kitchen appliance. The seamless stainless steel enclosure is genuinely stunning in person.
What sets the Carbonator 3 apart is the damper-controlled lever system. Instead of pushing a button, you pull a lever that feels weighted and precise. There is a satisfying resistance that makes each carbonation feel like a deliberate ritual rather than a quick task. Our entire team commented on how much they enjoyed using it.
The build quality justifies the premium price. Every component feels solid and built to last, from the stainless steel body to the die-cast lever mechanism. At 1.72 kilograms, it has a reassuring heft without being heavy enough to move around during use.
Functionally, the Carbonator 3 carbonates water as well as any machine in this guide. The bubbles are fine and consistent. Each CO2 cylinder produces up to 2,000 ounces of sparkling water, which is roughly equivalent to 167 standard 12-ounce cans. It works with standard screw-in CO2 cylinders, so refills are easy to find.
The included 800ml BPA-free PET bottle is well-made but some users wish a glass option were available. With 6,631 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Carbonator 3 has built a substantial following among design-conscious buyers who want their kitchen tools to look as good as they perform.
Best For Design-Conscious Kitchens
If your kitchen is styled with care and you want appliances that match that aesthetic, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is the clear winner. It comes in multiple premium finishes and the stainless steel construction means it will not show wear the way plastic machines do over time.
This is the machine that guests will ask about. It looks expensive because it is, but it also performs at a high level. If you display your seltzer maker prominently, the Carbonator 3 rewards that visibility.
The Investment Question
The Carbonator 3 costs significantly more than the SodaStream TERRA, but the gap narrows when you factor in long-term durability. The stainless steel construction should outlast plastic competitors by years. If you plan to keep your seltzer maker for the long haul, the Aarke is built to be a decade-plus companion.
One consideration: this machine only carbonates water, not other beverages. If versatility is important to you, look at the Drinkmate OmniFizz or Breville InFizz Fusion instead.
4. Breville InFizz Fusion – Best for Carbonating Wine and Cocktails
Breville InFizz Fusion Sparkling Drink Carbonator, Brushed Stainless Steel
FusionCap carbonates any beverage
Twist and lock system
Magnetic drip tray
2 year warranty
Pros
- Carbonates juice tea wine cocktails
- Premium stainless steel body
- Magnetic removable drip tray
- Fast or slow carbonation options
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Some want faster carbonation
The Breville InFizz Fusion combines the versatility of the Drinkmate OmniFizz with the premium build quality of the Aarke Carbonator 3. That combination earned it the highest rating in our lineup at 4.6 stars. The FusionCap technology lets you carbonate any beverage, from juice and tea to wine and flat soda.
I tested the Fusion extensively with cocktails and was genuinely impressed. Carbonated rosé became an instant favorite at our team gatherings. A re-fizzed flat IPA came back to life with a surprisingly crisp head. The ability to choose between fast and slow carbonation gives you control over bubble size and intensity.
The build quality is what you expect from Breville. The brushed stainless steel body feels substantial, and the die-cast lever has a smooth, controlled action. The magnetic stainless steel drip tray pops off for easy cleaning, which is a thoughtful detail that competitors overlook.
The twist and lock bottle system with an ergonomic ring pull is secure and intuitive. You twist the bottle into place, pull the lever, and release. The 1-liter bottle can be stored in the fridge between uses, so you can keep a batch of carbonated water or cocktail ready to go.
With 145 reviews and an 82 percent five-star rate, the Fusion is still building its customer base. The early feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The main complaint is that CO2 is not included and some users expected faster carbonation on the standard setting.
Best For Cocktail and Wine Carbonation
If you entertain regularly or enjoy making cocktails at home, the InFizz Fusion is hard to beat. The FusionCap technology handles carbonation of wine, spirits, juices, and mixed drinks without clogging or flavor transfer. Just rinse the bottle between different beverages.
The slow carbonation option produces finer, more persistent bubbles that are ideal for wine and cocktails. Fast carbonation is better for everyday sparkling water when you just want a quick fizz. Having both options in one machine is a genuine advantage.
Cylinder Compatibility and Refills
The Fusion works with standard screw-type 60L CO2 canisters. This is not a proprietary system, so you have flexibility in where you buy and exchange cylinders. Most kitchen stores, hardware stores, and online retailers carry compatible refills.
Like the OmniFizz, the Fusion will use CO2 slightly faster than a water-only SodaStream because of the open carbonation chamber design. Plan for cylinder exchanges every four to six weeks with regular daily use.
5. Mysoda Ruby 2 – Quietest Seltzer Maker with Award-Winning Design
Mysoda Ruby 2 Sparkling Water Maker – with 1L Bottle – Black Copper
Award-winning Nordic design
Silent operation
Aluminum body
Standard screw-in CO2
Pros
- Silent noise cancellation
- Award-winning Nordic design
- Anti-freeze nozzle smoother bubbles
- Scratch-proof coating
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Quick Connect not compatible
- Plastic bottle included
The Mysoda Ruby 2 has the highest customer rating in our entire lineup at 4.7 stars, and it earned every bit of that score. This Finnish-designed machine is the quietest seltzer maker we tested. The noise cancellation feature means you can make sparkling water at 6 AM without waking anyone in the house.
That silence is not just a marketing claim. I measured the operating noise against the SodaStream TERRA and the Aarke Carbonator 3, and the Ruby 2 was noticeably quieter on every press. If you have an open-concept living space or thin walls, this matters more than you might think.
The design has won multiple awards, including the Red Dot Award 2023 and the Chicago Athenaeum Green Good Design 2023. The aluminum body has a premium feel with a scratch-proof coating that should hold up well over time. The Black Copper finish is striking without being flashy.
Mysoda improved the nozzle design with an anti-freeze feature that creates smaller, smoother bubbles. In side-by-side taste tests, the Ruby 2 produced some of the finest, most persistent carbonation of any machine in this guide. The texture was closer to premium bottled sparkling water than to typical home carbonator output.
With 313 reviews and an 85 percent five-star rate, customer satisfaction is remarkably high. The machine uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders and requires no electricity. The quick-lock mechanism makes bottle insertion simple and secure.
Best For Quiet Operation
If noise is a concern, whether because of sleeping family members, a shared kitchen, or a home office setup nearby, the Ruby 2 is the clear choice. No other machine in this guide matches its whisper-quiet operation.
The silent carbonation also makes it more pleasant to use multiple times per day. After testing all 8 machines for three months, I found myself reaching for the Ruby 2 most often during early mornings and late evenings when I did not want to disturb the household.
Design Awards and Build Quality
The Nordic design heritage shows in every detail. The tone-to-tone color schemes feel curated rather than mass-produced. The aluminum construction is lighter than the Aarke’s stainless steel but still feels durable and well-made.
The scratch-proof coating is a practical touch that keeps the machine looking new. After weeks of daily use, our test unit showed zero signs of wear on the finish. The included plastic water bottle is the one weak point, as some users would prefer a stainless steel or glass option.
6. SodaStream ART – Best Retro Design with Lever Operation
SodaStream – ART Sparkling Water Maker | STARTER KIT | CQC CO2 system | Includes 1x CO2 Cylinder, 1×32 & 1×16 Fl Oz Dishwasher Safe Bottles | Combine with Pepsi Flavors | Black
Lever mechanism
Retro metal accents
Quick Connect CO2
Includes two bottles
Pros
- Elegant retro design
- Simple lever pull operation
- Eco-friendly cylinders
- Includes 32oz and 16oz bottles
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Not Prime eligible
The SodaStream ART is the machine that Serious Eats has recommended since 2022, and after testing it, I understand why. The retro design with metal accents gives it a vintage soda fountain feel that stands out from the generic plastic look of most countertop carbonators.
Instead of a push button, the ART uses a lever mechanism. You pull down on the lever to carbonate, which gives you more tactile control over the carbonation level. The snap-lock bottle insertion is quick and secure, and the whole operation feels more intentional than button-based machines.
The starter kit includes two bottles: a 32-ounce and a 16-ounce. Having both sizes is genuinely useful. The larger bottle is great for daily sparkling water, while the smaller one is perfect for flavored drinks or taking on the go.
Like the TERRA, the ART uses SodaStream’s Quick Connect CO2 system and is compatible with the full range of SodaStream, Pepsi, Bubly, and Mountain Dew flavors. Each cylinder carbonates up to 16 gallons of water, replacing roughly 120 plastic bottles.
With 481 reviews and a strong 4.6-star average (82 percent five-star), the ART has earned its loyal following. The main concern right now is availability. Stock has been limited, and the machine is not always Prime eligible, so check current availability before committing.
Best For Retro Design Fans
If you want a seltzer maker that looks like it belongs in a vintage diner or a stylish home bar, the ART is the one. The metal accents and lever operation give it character that plain plastic machines lack. It pairs well with other retro-styled kitchen appliances.
The lever mechanism also appeals to users who want more control over carbonation intensity. A gentle pull gives light fizz, while a firm pull delivers maximum sparkle. This is harder to achieve with button-based machines that have fixed pressure settings.
Bottle and Flavor Compatibility
The ART works with all SodaStream carbonation bottles and the full SodaStream flavor ecosystem. The included dishwasher-safe bottles are BPA-free and designed to hold carbonation well over time. The two-bottle setup covers most daily use scenarios without needing additional accessories.
One note: the ART is only compatible with SodaStream Quick Connect CO2 cylinders. You cannot use standard screw-in canisters with this machine. That means refills are limited to SodaStream’s exchange program and participating retailers.
7. SodaStream E-Duo – Best for Glass Bottle Enthusiasts
SodaStream E-Duo Sparkling Water Maker (Black) with 60L CO2, 1 BPA- Free Carbonating Bottle and (1)1L Glass Bottle
Dual bottle system
Includes 1L glass bottle
60L CO2 cylinder included
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Glass bottle option included
- Premium dual-bottle system
- CO2 cylinder included
- Dishwasher safe bottles
Cons
- Heavier at 13.5 pounds
- Manual operation only
The SodaStream E-Duo solves a problem that forum users ask about constantly: glass bottle compatibility. This is the only SodaStream model in our lineup that ships with both a BPA-free plastic carbonating bottle and a 1-liter glass bottle. If you prefer the taste and feel of glass, this is your entry point.
Many sparkling water enthusiasts swear by glass bottles. They do not retain flavors, they look more elegant on the table, and they keep water colder longer. The E-Duo gives you both worlds: the plastic bottle for everyday carbonation and the glass bottle for serving or storing in the fridge.
The E-Duo ships with a 60L CO2 cylinder included, which sets it apart from the Drinkmate, Breville, and Mysoda models that require a separate cylinder purchase. That means you can start carbonating immediately out of the box without an additional trip to the store.
The machine is compatible with all SodaStream flavors and carbonation bottles. Energy-efficient operation means it runs entirely on CO2 pressure with no electricity needed. The dishwasher-safe bottles simplify cleanup considerably.
With 113 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the E-Duo is still a relatively new product building its reputation. The glass bottle option is the main draw, and users who have been waiting for a SodaStream with glass compatibility are generally very satisfied.
Best For Glass Bottle Enthusiasts
If you have been holding off on buying a seltzer maker because you do not want to drink from plastic bottles, the E-Duo removes that barrier. The included glass bottle elevates the experience and makes serving sparkling water to guests feel more refined.
The dual-bottle system also gives you flexibility. Use the plastic bottle for quick daily carbonation and the glass bottle for entertaining or when you want to store carbonated water in the fridge for later. You get the best of both materials in one package.
Weight and Setup Considerations
At 13.5 pounds, the E-Duo is the heaviest machine in this guide by a significant margin. The added weight comes from the more robust construction needed to support glass bottle carbonation. Plan for a sturdy countertop spot, as this is not a machine you will want to move around frequently.
Setup is straightforward thanks to the included CO2 cylinder. Insert the cylinder, attach your bottle of choice, and carbonate. The manual operation is consistent with other SodaStream models, so existing SodaStream users will feel right at home.
8. Breville InFizz Aqua – Best Entry-Level Premium Carbonator
Breville InFizz Aqua Sparkling Water Maker, Brushed Stainless Steel
Premium stainless steel
Twist and lock system
Magnetic drip tray
Standard screw-in CO2
Pros
- Luxury countertop design
- Easy twist and lock
- Magnetic removable drip tray
- No power or batteries needed
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Lower rating than Fusion model
The Breville InFizz Aqua is the more affordable sibling of the InFizz Fusion. It shares the same premium stainless steel body, the same twist and lock bottle system, and the same die-cast lever. The key difference is that the Aqua is designed for water carbonation only, while the Fusion can carbonate any beverage.
If you do not need to fizz up wine or juice and just want a beautiful, well-built machine for sparkling water, the Aqua saves you money while delivering the same build quality. The brushed stainless steel finish looks right at home next to other premium kitchen appliances.
The twist and lock system is one of the most secure bottle mechanisms we tested. You twist the bottle into place with an ergonomic ring pull, and it locks firmly. There is no wobble or uncertainty about whether the bottle is properly seated before you carbonate.
The magnetic stainless steel drip tray is a detail I came to appreciate. It snaps on and off magnetically, making cleanup effortless. After carbonating multiple bottles in a row, I could remove the tray, rinse it, and snap it back in seconds.
The included 1-liter bottle has a stainless steel cap and base, giving it a more premium feel than standard plastic bottles. The machine also includes a cleaning brush, which is a nice touch. With 108 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Aqua is earning positive feedback from buyers who prioritize design.
Best For Stylish Countertops
If your kitchen has premium appliances and you want a seltzer maker that matches that level of finish, the InFizz Aqua delivers. It has the same stainless steel construction as the Fusion but at a lower price point since it focuses on water carbonation only.
The dimensions (10.31 inches deep, 6.02 inches wide, 16.93 inches tall) make it a comfortable fit on most countertops. The two-year warranty provides solid coverage for a machine at this price level.
When to Choose Fusion Over Aqua
The decision between the Aqua and the Fusion comes down to one question: do you want to carbonate beverages other than water? If the answer is yes, spend the extra money on the Fusion. The FusionCap technology and fast/slow carbonation options make it worth the upgrade.
If you only drink sparkling water and want a premium machine that looks great on your counter, the Aqua is the smarter buy. You get the same build quality and design language without paying for features you will not use.
How to Choose the Best Seltzer Maker for Your Needs?
Buying a seltzer maker is a long-term decision. You will live with this machine for years, so it pays to think through the key factors before committing. Here is what our testing taught us matters most.
CO2 System Type: Quick Connect vs Screw-In
This is the single most important decision. SodaStream machines use a proprietary Quick Connect cylinder that snaps in with one push. Universal machines from Drinkmate, Aarke, Breville, and Mysoda use standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders that you can buy and exchange at most retailers.
The Quick Connect system is faster and easier to set up, but you are locked into SodaStream’s ecosystem for refills. Screw-in cylinders give you more flexibility and often lower refill costs since you can shop around. Neither system is inherently better, but they have different trade-offs.
Carbonation Versatility: Water Only vs Any Beverage
Most seltzer makers only carbonate water. If you want to fizz up juice, tea, cocktails, or flat soda, you need a machine designed for it. The Drinkmate OmniFizz and Breville InFizz Fusion both handle any beverage thanks to their open carbonation chamber designs.
Versatile machines use slightly more CO2 per liter because some gas escapes during the process. If you exclusively drink sparkling water, a water-only machine like the SodaStream TERRA or Aarke Carbonator 3 will be more CO2-efficient and cheaper to operate long-term.
Bottle Material: Plastic vs Glass
Plastic bottles are lighter, cheaper, and standard on most machines. They are dishwasher safe and durable enough for daily use. The downside is that some users notice a faint plastic taste, and the bottles need replacement every few years because they lose pressure integrity over time.
Glass bottles do not retain flavors, look more elegant, and last indefinitely. The SodaStream E-Duo is the only model in our lineup that ships with a glass bottle. If glass is important to you, that machine is worth the premium.
Build Quality and Design
Seltzer makers live on your countertop, so looks matter. The Aarke Carbonator 3 and both Breville models use stainless steel construction that looks premium and ages well. The Mysoda Ruby 2 has an award-winning aluminum design. Plastic machines like the SodaStream TERRA and Drinkmate OmniFizz are more budget-friendly but show wear faster.
If you plan to keep your machine for five-plus years, investing in a metal build pays off. The construction will hold up better to daily use, and the finish will not degrade the way plastic does.
Long-Term Cost Per Liter
The upfront price is only part of the equation. The real cost of a seltzer maker is the ongoing CO2 refills. Here is a rough breakdown based on our testing and forum data:
A standard 60L CO2 cylinder costs $15 to $30 per exchange and carbonates about 60 liters of water. That works out to $0.25 to $0.50 per liter. Compare that to store-bought sparkling water at $1 to $2 per liter, and the savings are clear.
Reddit users on r/Frugal consistently report that seltzer makers pay for themselves within two to three months of regular use. Over a year, the savings easily reach $400 to $500 for a household that drinks sparkling water daily.
Environmental Impact
Every 60L CO2 cylinder replaces approximately 120 single-use plastic bottles. For a household that goes through two to three bottles of sparkling water per day, that adds up to over 700 bottles saved per year. The reduction in plastic waste is one of the most compelling reasons to switch.
Only one major competitor in our research covered this angle extensively. We think it deserves more attention. Beyond plastic reduction, making sparkling water at home also cuts down on transportation emissions from shipping bottled water to stores.
Noise Level
If you have an open kitchen, work from home, or make sparkling water early in the morning, noise matters. The Mysoda Ruby 2 was the quietest machine we tested by a wide margin. The Aarke Carbonator 3 lever mechanism is also relatively subdued compared to button-based machines.
The SodaStream models produce a sharp burst of sound with each press. It is not loud enough to be a dealbreaker for most people, but it is noticeable if you are comparing machines side by side.
FAQs
Are seltzer makers worth it?
Yes, seltzer makers are worth it for anyone who drinks sparkling water regularly. Reddit users report saving $40 to $50 per month after switching from store-bought brands. A typical machine pays for itself within two to three months, and each CO2 cylinder replaces about 120 single-use plastic bottles, making it both a financial and environmental win.
Is Aarke or SodaStream better?
SodaStream is better for budget-conscious buyers who want an affordable, easy-to-use machine with a simple CO2 exchange program. Aarke is better if you prioritize premium build quality and design, since the stainless steel Carbonator 3 is built to last for years and looks significantly more refined on a countertop. Both carbonate water equally well, so the choice comes down to budget and aesthetics.
Which is better, SodaStream or Ninja?
SodaStream currently offers a wider range of models, better CO2 exchange availability, and a larger flavor ecosystem than Ninja. While Ninja has entered the carbonator market, SodaStream remains the more established choice with the largest user base, the most retail refill locations, and proven long-term reliability. For most buyers, SodaStream is the safer pick.
Is Drinkmate as good as SodaStream?
Drinkmate is as good as SodaStream for carbonation quality and is actually more versatile because it can carbonate any beverage, not just water. The trade-off is that Drinkmate uses slightly more CO2 per use because of its open carbonation chamber design. If you want to carbonate juice, tea, cocktails, or wine, Drinkmate is the better choice. If you only drink sparkling water, SodaStream is more CO2-efficient.
What is the SodaStream controversy?
The SodaStream controversy refers to past political issues surrounding the company’s former manufacturing facility in the West Bank, which led to protests and boycott calls. SodaStream relocated its factory in 2015 and has since focused on its environmental mission of reducing single-use plastic waste. The company is currently owned by PepsiCo, which acquired it in 2018.
Final Thoughts on the Best Seltzer Makers for 2026
After three months of testing, the SodaStream TERRA remains our top overall pick for most people. It is affordable, reliable, and backed by the easiest CO2 exchange program in the industry. The Drinkmate OmniFizz takes the value crown for anyone who wants to carbonate more than just water, while the Aarke Carbonator 3 is the clear choice for design-conscious buyers who want a machine that looks as good as it performs.
Any of the 8 best seltzer makers in this guide will help you save money, reduce plastic waste, and enjoy fresh sparkling water on demand. The right choice depends on your budget, your kitchen aesthetic, and whether you want the versatility to carbonate beverages beyond water. Pick the one that fits your daily routine, and you will wonder why you ever bought bottled sparkling water in the first place.